Walking Function and Capacity in Middle-Aged and Older (59-66y) Adults With Spina Bifida Myelomeningocele: A 4-Year Follow-up Study

This is the first follow-up study of people with SMB without hydrocephalus aged 59-66 years to capture changes in their walking function by using objective measures in a motion laboratory and self-reported measures. This study revealed a change in half of the persons on the 6MWT and not to the same extent in the 10-m instrumented gait analysis test during the follow-up period. This may reflect that the 6MWT is more useful in detecting changes in walking capacity in this group. In conclusion, the study highlights the need for long-term follow-up for adults with SBM to maintain optimal walking capacity for more years.